Danang and Hoi An itinerary: The perfect Vietnam travel plan

Planning a trip to Central Vietnam can feel overwhelming with so many beautiful places to see, how do you choose where to start? With a thoughtful Danang and Hoi An itinerary, you can enjoy golden beaches, rich cultural heritage, amazing food, and unforgettable scenery. Whether you’re here for a short escape or a week-long adventure, this guide will help you make the most of your journey.

How many days to visit Danang and Hoi An?

If you’re planning a trip to Central Vietnam, combining Danang and Hoi An is one of the best ways to experience both modern coastal vibes and timeless cultural charm. Danang is a vibrant, fast-growing city known for its iconic bridges, golden beaches, and exciting attractions like Ba Na Hills. In contrast, Hoi An is a beautifully preserved ancient town filled with lantern-lit streets, traditional architecture, and a peaceful, nostalgic atmosphere.

So, how many days should you spend to fully enjoy both destinations?

At a minimum, three to four days will give you enough time to explore the key highlights of both cities without feeling rushed. You can spend a full day discovering Danang’s beaches, trying local specialties like mi Quang, then head to Ba Na Hills for the Golden Bridge and panoramic views. The following days can be devoted to Hoi An, where you’ll wander through the ancient streets, enjoy lantern-lit nights, and sample regional dishes like cao lau and banh mi Phuong.

If you have more time, five to seven days is ideal for a more relaxed and immersive experience. You’ll be able to slow down and dive deeper into the culture, take a boat ride through the coconut forests of Cam Thanh, or venture further out to the Cham Islands or My Son Sanctuary. You’ll also have time to enjoy the beaches in both cities, from the calm An Bang shore in Hoi An to the lively coastline in Danang.

Read more: Perfect Hoi An itinerary for all travelers

Suggested itineraries for Danang and Hoi An

Combining Danang and Hoi An in a single trip not only saves travel time but also offers a diverse and enriching experience. Danang is lively and contemporary, known for its iconic bridges, beautiful beaches, and exciting attractions. Meanwhile, Hoi An captivates visitors with its ancient streets and peaceful cultural ambiance. Below are some curated Danang and Hoi An itinerary suggestions to help you choose the best plan based on your time and travel style.

Danang Hoi An 4 day 3 night itinerary

A 4-day, 3-night Danang and Hoi An itinerary is a great choice for travelers who want to enjoy both the coast and culture without feeling rushed. From trying delicious local dishes to exploring ancient alleys and watching the sunset by the river, this itinerary offers just the right mix of fun, flavor, and unforgettable memories.

Day 1: Arrive in Danang

• Morning

Arrive early in Danang. Just 15 minutes from the airport, and you’re already feeling the sea breeze at My Khe Beach – one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Check in or drop your bags at a hotel near the beach. The An Thuong area is ideal with lots of cafés, restaurants, and walking distance to the shore.

• Midday

Grab lunch at a local favorite like Mi Quang Ba Mua or Bun Cha Ca Ba Lu – authentic, affordable, and delicious.

Take a short rest to recharge.

• Afternoon

Head to the Marble Mountains, a cluster of limestone peaks filled with caves, temples, and sweeping views. Don’t miss Am Phu Cave and Linh Ung Pagoda on the top of Thuy Son Mountain.

Stop by Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village for beautiful handmade souvenirs.

• Evening

Enjoy a seafood dinner at Be Man, Ba Thoi, or another beachfront eatery.

Stroll across the Dragon Bridge, Love Bridge, and the glowing APEC Park.

If it’s the weekend, stay to watch the Dragon Bridge breathe fire and water at 9:00 PM — a unique Danang spectacle.

Day 2: Ba Na Hills Adventure – Sunset Arrival in Hoi An

• Early Morning (6:30 – 7:00 AM)

Quick breakfast (banh mi or pho).

Depart for Ba Na Hills – Vietnam’s iconic mountain top amusement complex with record-breaking cable cars.

Enjoy a buffet lunch on the mountain.

• Late afternoon 

Head to Hoi An (about 1-hour drive).

Treat yourself to a tranquil stay at Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness, just outside the center, where the beach meets luxury and relaxation.

• Evening

Stroll through lantern-lit streets as night falls. Hoi An turns magical when the lights dim and paper lanterns glow across the river.

Try signature dishes: cao lau, banh mi Phuong, or com ga Ba Buoi.

Take a short boat ride on the Thu Bon River, release floating lanterns, and make a wish.

Grab a riverside drink, enjoy acoustic music, or simply sit back and soak in the peaceful ambiance.

Day 3: Local life & Leisure 

• Morning (8:00 – 11:00 AM)

Take a guided tour to the Bay Mau Coconut Forest: Ride basket boats through lush water palms. Watch folk dancing, net-throwing, and fun spinning tricks

• Midday

Enjoy lunch near the coconut forest or head back to the Old Town for local favorites like com ga Ty or cao lau Lien.

Take a quick rest.

• Afternoon 

Head out to Binh Minh Beach and chill at beach bars like Cham Beach Bar, sip fresh coconut water, and watch the sunset over the sea. 

• Evening

Book tickets to the outdoor spectacle Hoi An Memories Show (8:00 PM), where hundreds of performers bring the town’s rich history to life on a massive stage.

Or simply return to the lantern-lit streets and enjoy a quieter night with street food like sesame sweet soup, black sesame pudding, or grilled skewers.

Day 4: A slow goodbye to Hoi An’s magic

• Morning

Start your day at a scenic rooftop café for a panoramic view of the Old Town’s tiled roofs.

Pick up souvenirs like lanterns, handmade crafts, or tailor-made clothes if you placed an order earlier.

• Midday

Take one last peaceful walk around the alleys and capture your final photos beneath the iconic yellow walls.

Check out and drive back to Danang (about 1 hour) for your flight.

7 day 6 night Danang – Hoi An Itinerary: Discover the Best of Central Vietnam

A 7-day, 6-night Danang and Hoi An itinerary gives you the perfect amount of time to truly explore the heart of Central Vietnam at a comfortable pace. With more time, you will be able to slow down and soak in the rhythm of both the vibrant city and the ancient town. This itinerary is perfect for those who crave not just sightseeing, but a deeper connection with the culture, people, and atmosphere of a land that feels both timeless and full of life.

Day 1: Arrive in Danang

• Morning 

Land in Danang and transfer to your accommodation near the beach ( Bliss 

Enjoy a casual lunch with local specialties like mi Quang or bun cha ca.

• Afternoon

Explore Son Tra Peninsula, stop at Linh Ung Pagoda to see Vietnam’s tallest Lady Buddha statue.

If you’re feeling adventurous, ride up to Ban Co Peak for panoramic city views.

• Evening

Walk along Dragon Bridge, Love Bridge, and the Son Tra night market.

Savor a fresh seafood dinner at one of the city’s popular local spots.

Day 2: Marble Mountains – Stone Village – Beach Relaxation

• Morning

Visit the Marble Mountains: hike into Am Phu Cave, climb to Linh Ung Pagoda, and enjoy panoramic views from Vong Giang Dai.

Drop by Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village to watch artisans at work.

• Midday – Afternoon

Return to your hotel for a short rest.

Swim or relax at My Khe Beach, grab a drink at a rooftop café like Horizon Bar or Chicland Lounge.

• Evening

Treat yourself to a seafood BBQ dinner or dine at a beachfront restaurant.

Wind down with a walk, street food, or live acoustic music.

Day 3: A full day in Ba Na Hills

• Morning – Noon

Early transfer to Ba Na Hills, ride the record-breaking cable car up the mountain.

Visit the iconic Golden Bridge, explore the French Village, colorful gardens, and Debay Wine Cellar.

Enjoy a buffet lunch on the mountaintop.

• Afternoon

Continue exploring Fantasy Park or simply relax and enjoy the cool climate.

Head back to Danang around 4:00 – 5:00 PM and rest.

• Evening

Free time for exploring Danang’s food scene or try something new like Korean or Japanese cuisine.

Day 4: Travel to Hoi An 

• Morning

Check out and head to Hoi An (about 1 hour by car).

Stop at Hoi An Silk Village or Thanh Ha Pottery Village for craft and cultural insights.

• Midday – Afternoon

Check in to your accommodation. For full relaxation, choose Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness (seaside retreat just outside the town) or stay inside the Old Town for easy access.

Enjoy some quiet time: spa, pool, beach, or a nap.

• Evening

Walk through the magical lantern-lit Old Town, dine on cao lau, banh mi Phuong, or com ga Ba Buoi.

Take a boat ride on the Thu Bon River, light a floating lantern, and enjoy street performances or traditional music.

Day 5: Coconut Forest Adventure – Cooking Class – Coffee by the River

• Morning

Take a guided tour of the Bay Mau Coconut Forest:

Ride a basket boat through palm groves

Enjoy water games, net-casting shows, and folk singing

Continue with a Hoi An cooking class in Tra Que Vegetable Village

• Midday – Afternoon

Enjoy lunch with what you cooked or at a local family house.

Return to your hotel to rest or explore a hidden café.

• Evening

Sip coffee at a riverside spot or try Mot herbal tea.

Shop for souvenirs or order tailor-made clothes.

Day 6: Beach time at An Bang – Hoi An Memories Show

• Morning – Midday

Sleep in and have a relaxing breakfast.

Head to An Bang Beach, rent a sunbed, sip fresh juice or coconut, and dip your feet in the sea.

Enjoy lunch at The DeckHouse, Salt Pub, or another beachside eatery.

• Afternoon – Evening

Return to the town to prepare for the Hoi An Memories Show at 8:00 PM (highly recommended – book tickets in advance).

End the day with a light dinner and one last peaceful walk through the ancient streets.

Day 7: Say goodbye to Central Vietnam

• Morning

Enjoy your final coffee on a rooftop café like 92 Station, overlooking the tiled rooftops of Hoi An.

Pick up last-minute souvenirs: local treats, lanterns, or your tailored outfit.

• Midday – Afternoon

Check out and transfer back to Danang for your flight.

Have lunch along the way or at the airport depending on your flight time.

Must-try dishes and culinary experiences

One of the things that makes a trip to Danang and Hoi An truly unforgettable is the food. Even if you’re not a devoted foodie, it’s hard not to fall for the bold, rich flavors of Central Vietnam. 

Danang cuisine

• Mi Quang

Danang is a young, modern city, yet every bite of its local cuisine still carries the honest, down-to-earth spirit of the Central region. It’s impossible to talk about Danang food without mentioning Mi Quang. With golden turmeric noodles, just a bit of rich broth, fresh herbs, grilled rice paper, and green chili, every bowl is a harmonious blend of taste and color. You’ll find it across the city, but the most beloved spots are the no-frills eateries like Mi Quang Thi and Mi Quang Ba Mua, where locals have returned for generations.

• Bun Cha Ca

Another everyday favorite is Bun Cha Ca – fish cake noodle soup that brings the flavor of the sea to your bowl. Danang’s fish cakes are made from freshly caught fish, seasoned just right, and the broth is light, clear, yet full of depth. A dash of fermented shrimp paste or chili satay takes it to another level. Don’t hesitate to sit down at older, well-worn shops, they’re often the ones that locals trust the most.

• Seafood

As night falls and sea breezes roll in, it’s time for a proper seafood feast. Seafood stalls lining My Khe Beach serve fresh catches cooked your way – steamed, grilled with scallion oil, stir-fried in tamarind, or bubbling in a fragrant hotpot. Order a few simple dishes, pop open a cold beer, and you’ll quickly feel like a local yourself.

Besides the well-known restaurants and long-standing local eateries, one of the most rewarding culinary experiences in Danang is exploring its vibrant local markets. Con Market is a must-visit if you want to dive into true street food culture. From grilled pork skewers to sweet desserts, the market is filled with dishes freshly made right in front of you, hot, fragrant, and full of local charm.

Hoi An cuisine

• Cao Lau

A signature dish of the town is Cao Lau. Thick noodles soaked in lye water from ancient wells, tender slices of char siu-style pork, fresh herbs, and crispy rice crackers come together to create a unique texture and flavor. It’s a dish best enjoyed at a little wooden table in a narrow alley, with the sound of bicycles clinking past. Everything about the moment enhances the dish.

• Hoi An banh mi

Then there’s the legendary Hoi An Banh Mi. Nowhere in Vietnam is this humble sandwich crafted with such care. A perfectly crispy baguette, filled with grilled meat, pâté, pickled vegetables, herbs, and a signature sauce that’s hard to describe but easy to crave. Banh Mi Phuong may be the most famous, but don’t overlook Madam Khanh or the many nameless vendors scattered throughout the town. Sometimes it’s the simplest places that serve the most unforgettable bites.

• Banh Dap

In the late afternoon, head out to Tra Que vegetable village, where the pace slows even more. There, you can try Banh Dap, a dish made by pressing rice paper crackers together, served with savory fermented anchovy sauce, alongside spicy Hen Xao (sautéed baby clams). It’s a simple countryside meal, but with views of rice fields and the scent of herbs in the air, it becomes something magical.

• Sesame sweet soup

And when night falls, after floating lanterns on the Hoai River or strolling through glowing lantern-lit streets, don’t forget to end your day with a bowl of warm black sesame sweet soup (Che Me Den). This is a traditional Vietnamese dessert known for its smooth, nutty flavor and soothing warmth. In Hoi An, it’s often enjoyed in the evening as a gentle way to end the day. Its rich taste and comforting texture make it especially satisfying on a cool night by the Hoai River.

Travel tips for Danang and Hoi An

To make the most of your trip, a well-planned itinerary is important—but equally essential are the little travel hacks that help you enjoy every moment with ease. Below are some practical travel tips for Danang and Hoi An to keep in mind before and during your journey.

• Getting between Danang and Hoi An

Danang and Hoi An are located just about 30 kilometers apart, which makes it extremely convenient to visit both destinations in one trip. You can travel between the two by public bus, or by taxi, private car, or ride-hailing apps like Grab. For those who enjoy more freedom and a touch of adventure, renting a motorbike in Danang and riding along the scenic coastal road to Hoi An is a popular and rewarding option.

• Choosing where to stay

Choosing the right place to stay can make a big difference in your overall experience. In Danang, staying near the beach, particularly in areas like My Khe or Pham Van Dong, gives you easy access to the sea, restaurants, and major attractions. In Hoi An, it’s ideal to book a cozy homestay or boutique hotel in or near the Ancient Town.

However, if you’re looking for a more tranquil and luxurious retreat that still keeps you close to the cultural heart of the city, Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness is a perfect choice. Just a short drive from the Old Town, the resort offers spacious rooms, ocean views, and a serene atmosphere that’s ideal for recharging after a day of exploring. With its blend of modern comfort and Vietnamese charm, Bliss Hoi An provides a peaceful escape while still giving you easy access to the lantern-lit magic of the town each evening.

• Booking in advance for popular attractions

Certain attractions in Danang and Hoi An are extremely popular and can get crowded during peak seasons. It’s a good idea to book tickets or tours in advance for places like Ba Na Hills, Asia Park, the Hoi An Memories Show, Cham Islands, or the Bay Mau Coconut Forest. Booking early with trusted agencies such as AITours, BestPrice, or Vinpearl not only helps you skip long lines but can also save you money with package deals.

• Preparing for the weather

Weather in Central Vietnam can vary throughout the year, with the rainy season typically running from September to December. To stay comfortable, it’s best to pack a lightweight raincoat, a compact umbrella, and shoes that can handle wet conditions. If you plan to visit Ba Na Hills, be sure to bring a light jacket, even in the summer, as the mountaintop weather can be unexpectedly cool.

• Helpful things to keep in mind

Hoi An becomes especially magical in the evening, and that’s even more true during the full moon lantern festivals held monthly. Taking a boat ride on the Hoai River and releasing a small lantern is a beautiful and memorable way to experience the town’s spirit. 

If you’re planning to rent a motorbike, make sure you have an international driver’s license or a certified translation of your license if you’re a foreign visitor. 

It’s also worth noting that many of the natural attractions in the area, such as coconut forests and rural villages, are working hard to protect their environment. You can support these efforts by reducing plastic waste and avoiding single-use items during your visit.

Read more: South and Central Vietnam itinerary: The perfect 10 – 14 day travel guide 

Whether you have just four days or a full week to explore, a combined journey through Danang and Hoi An will always feel rewarding and rich in experience. With the Danang and Hoi An itinerary suggestions above, we hope you’ll find a plan that suits your pace and interests, balancing relaxation with discovery. More than just a trip, let this be a memorable chapter in your travels through the heart of Vietnam.